16 de Septiembre

EL 16 DE SEPTIEMBRE “DIA DE LA INDEPEDENCIA”

September 16th is Mexico’s Independence Day. The month of September is and always will be very near and dear to my heart. Being Hispanic I’m able to celebrate both the U.S. and Mexico’s Independence Days. I’ve always felt it a great honor and privilege to be Mexican American. I love and appreciate that I get the best of both worlds.
I’d like to share a little insight of my own personal experience regarding the Mexican Independence Day celebration and festivities. The whole month of September is celebrated in Mexico and it’s referred to as “EL MES DE LA PATRIA” which translated means “THE MONTH OF THE PATRIOT”. By the 1st of the month you start seeing a colorful array of push carts and brightly decorated stores all over Mexico selling flags, trumpets, sombreros, party noise makers, beautifully adorned dresses as well as hair pieces with the colors of the flag. No matter where you turn you will see nothing but rich warm patriotic colors of green, white and red all over.

This day also holds another special significance which is that it is my Grandmother’s birthday. She passed away many years ago when I was but a child. For those that may not know, I was raised by my grandma when I was little. Although she has passed on she will always hold a very special place in my heart. She was and always will be the most strong, hardworking, independent woman that I have known. I admired her perseverance and she was my biggest supporter. In her honor I always make sure to celebrate September 16th.

I absolutely love joining in the festivities. I look forward to dressing up, decorating, as well as cooking with friends and family. Every one knows if you got chips, salsa, tequila, margarita mix and some Vicente Fernandez music…it’s a party! Don’t forget the fajitas or if you don’t feel like cooking you can always order botanas fom your favorite Mexican restaurant. Mostly all of them will have specials in celebration of this festive day. I wanted to share a drink recipe that my husband makes for our friends when celebrating this special occasion. He humorously refers to it as Magic Mike’s cocktail mix. It is as follows:

1 Cup full of crushed ice

Add 1 or 2 shots of Tequila

Add Trechas chile powder (to liking)

Add 1 freshly squeezed lime

Finally add some squirt soft drink (make sure to get the glass bottle version as it’s made with real sugar cane)

Tada! You now have yourself a worthy and very tasty drink to help you celebrate Mexican Independence Day

About Miriam Contreras

Miriam Contreras lives in McAllen, Texas. She is married to her husband Mike. Together they have two beautiful children, Nathan (7) and Ella (3). She is an Image, Modeling & Etiquette consultant. Since she was little she has always enjoyed helping others. With the love and support of her family she has realized her dream in making a positive impact in the community. Consulting has allowed her to help many girls and women realize their unique God given strengths. She enjoys helping people fulfill their potential as confident and proud individuals. Miriam is the proud owner of MC Etiquette & Modeling also offering Image & Pageant Consulting.